PhD Position: Method Development for Hierarchical X-Ray Imaging at Synchrotron Facilities

PHD
Germany
3 November 2025
Full Time PhD position

Job Description

The Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) in Hamburg invites applications for two PhD positions focusing on Hierarchical X-ray Imaging Method Development at synchrotron facilities. The research will integrate computational imaging, X-ray nanoscience, and data science to pioneer new tomography techniques for multi-scale material and biological analysis.

Job Details

Field Details
Position Title PhD Position: Method Development for Hierarchical X-Ray Imaging at Synchrotron Facilities
Organization / Employer Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY)
Location Hamburg, Germany
Job ID FSDO016/2025
Duration Limited to 2 years (extension possible)
Employment Type Full-time / Part-time
Research Area X-Ray Imaging, Nanoscience, Computational Imaging, Materials Science
Host Groups X-Ray Nanoscience & X-Ray Optics Group / Computational Imaging Group
Associated University University of Hamburg (Doctoral Degree Granting Body)
Start Date Earliest possible
Application Deadline Open until filled
Salary 75% of E13 TVöD (Federal Government scale)
Contact Persons Dr. Johannes Hagemann ([email protected]), Prof. Martin Burger ([email protected])
Official Website Apply via DESY Careers Portal →

About DESY

The Deutsches Elektronen-Synchrotron (DESY) is one of the world’s leading research centres in particle physics, photon science, and nanostructure materials. With campuses in Hamburg and Zeuthen, DESY operates advanced synchrotron light sources like PETRA III — enabling fundamental insights into the structure and function of matter.

DESY’s mission spans physics, chemistry, biology, and materials research, combining interdisciplinary expertise to tackle scientific and technological challenges that shape the future.

About the PhD Project

These two PhD positions aim to develop new multi-scale imaging algorithms for synchrotron-based X-ray tomography. The work is part of the ErUM-Data Project CmarT and contributes to advancing local adaptive tomography (LAT) — a novel imaging approach that merges data across length scales to reveal hierarchical sample structures.

Your research will combine physics-based modeling, computational algorithm design, and high-performance computing to handle large-scale 3D data sets from PETRA III synchrotron experiments.

The projects will be hosted within:

  • The X-Ray Nanoscience and X-Ray Optics Group

  • The Computational Imaging Group

Key Responsibilities

  • Develop advanced physical models for holographic X-ray image formation.

  • Design and implement multi-scale reconstruction algorithms for large datasets.

  • Collaborate closely with beamline scientists at PETRA III to test and optimize the LAT scheme.

  • Analyze hierarchical materials and biological samples using synchrotron radiation.

  • Publish research results in high-impact journals and present at international conferences.

Required Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field.

  • Solid understanding of tomography, imaging physics, or computational modeling.

  • Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

  • Proficiency in at least one programming language (Python, C++, or MATLAB).

  • Excellent communication skills in English (German knowledge is an advantage).

  • Willingness to work in interdisciplinary teams and engage in international collaborations.

Preferred Attributes

  • Interest in nanostructure characterization, data science, or high-performance computing.

  • Experience with synchrotron or microscopy data analysis.

  • Passion for algorithmic innovation and experimental validation.

Why Join DESY?

DESY offers a truly international and dynamic research environment with access to world-class facilities and interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities.

You will benefit from:

  • Cutting-edge synchrotron facilities like PETRA III

  • Collaborations with leading research institutions across Europe

  • Training in experimental physics, data analysis, and algorithm design

  • Secure public-sector employment (TV-AVH)

  • Work-life balance with flexible hours and family-friendly policies

  • Financial supplement for Germany’s Deutschland-Ticket

DESY actively supports gender equality, diversity, and career development for young scientists.

Doctoral Framework

While DESY does not confer PhD degrees directly, enrolled students will complete their doctoral studies through the University of Hamburg, gaining both DESY research experience and academic mentorship.

PhD researchers receive a monthly salary equivalent to 75% of the TVöD E13 pay grade, along with full access to DESY’s career training programs and seminars.

Application Instructions

To apply, submit the following documents via the DESY Online Application Portal:

  • Letter of Motivation

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • Academic Transcripts and Certificates

  • Two Letters of Reference (submitted online)

📅 Deadline: Open until positions are filled
📍 Location: Hamburg, Germany
📧 Contact: [email protected] | [email protected]

Equal Opportunity Statement

DESY is committed to equal opportunity, inclusion, and diversity.

  • Women are strongly encouraged to apply.

  • Applications from candidates with disabilities are given preference when equally qualified.

For additional information: sbv.desy.de

Location

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